Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious slow cooker sauerkraut and sausage recipe! This dish is perfect for a chilly evening, a busy weeknight, or any occasion where you want a hearty and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a classic combination, elevated by the magic of slow cooking, resulting in unbelievably tender sausage and perfectly tangy sauerkraut. This recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it one of the best recipes for busy cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds (or your favorite sausage)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (26-ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: Begin by browning the sausage slices in a large skillet over medium heat. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. This simple step builds the flavor base of your dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned sausage and sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the drained sauerkraut, chicken broth (or apple cider), brown sugar (if using), caraway seeds (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the sausage is cooked through and the sauerkraut is tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This simple touch elevates the presentation. Serve hot, perhaps with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sauerkraut and Sausage:
- Sausage Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage! Andouille, bratwurst, or even Italian sausage would all be delicious in this recipe.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- Apple Cider: Using apple cider instead of chicken broth adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding your slow cooker. Allow space for the ingredients to cook evenly.
Variations:
- Add Potatoes: For an even heartier meal, add 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed, along with the sauerkraut.
- Apples: Diced apples add a nice sweetness and texture contrast. Include about 1-2 medium apples.
- Cabbage: If you don’t have sauerkraut on hand, you can easily substitute with fresh cabbage (about 1 medium head, shredded). Just note the cooking time might be slightly longer.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of sausage and ingredients used. For a general idea, a serving could contain approximately:
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This slow cooker sauerkraut and sausage recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes for a healthy meal. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. The homemade cooking experience is rewarding, and this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!